Police investigations suggest that Mohamed Al Fayed, the late billionaire and former owner of Harrods, may have raped and abused at least 111 women and girls over nearly 40 years, with the youngest alleged victim being just 13 years old. If confirmed, these allegations could position Fayed, who passed away last year at 94, as one of the most prolific sex offenders in British history.
The Metropolitan Police has launched an extensive investigation into Fayed’s alleged crimes, which span from 1977 to 2014. Five unnamed individuals, suspected of facilitating his offenses, are also being scrutinized as potential enablers. Scotland Yard has confirmed that a major review is underway to assess whether police officers failed to act on earlier complaints and if any historical corruption within the force may have allowed Fayed to evade justice.
In September, a BBC documentary brought renewed attention to the allegations, prompting 90 additional women to come forward with claims of abuse. This is in addition to 21 alleged victims who had previously reported their cases between 2005 and Fayed’s death. The Guardian reported that some victims accused corrupt officers of helping Fayed intimidate and harass staff, including a woman who allegedly rejected his sexual advances.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is currently deciding whether an independent investigation into the Metropolitan Police’s handling of the case is warranted. A Met spokesperson confirmed that the force has referred itself to the IOPC over complaints by two women regarding investigations conducted in 2008. “While we cannot change what happened in the past, we are committed to addressing any shortcomings and improving our response to survivors moving forward,” the spokesperson said.
Allegations of Corruption Within the Police Force
The investigation has uncovered potential ties between Fayed and members of law enforcement. Witnesses have alleged that police officers received luxury gifts and cash bribes from Fayed in exchange for favors. Bob Loftus, a former security director at Harrods, provided a witness statement alleging that a senior police commander received luxury hampers for assisting Fayed. Another detective constable was reportedly given a Harrods-provided mobile phone to facilitate illicit work.
John Macnamara, Fayed’s longtime security chief and a former detective, allegedly remarked, “It’s amazing what they will do for just a few readies.” While Loftus was unable to comment due to ill health, his former deputy, Eamon Coyle, corroborated the claims, saying, “I knew there was a tame policeman. He was under the direct control of Macnamara and on the payroll.”
Police Commit to Thorough Investigation
Cmdr Stephen Clayman, from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, acknowledged that trust in the police may have been eroded by past conduct. He encouraged other potential victims or witnesses to come forward, stating, “This investigation is about giving survivors a voice, even though Mohamed Al Fayed is no longer alive to face prosecution. We are pursuing justice against any individuals suspected of complicity in his offending.”
The Metropolitan Police has reviewed over 50,000 pages of evidence, including victim statements and archival materials. Detectives are also investigating whether any current or former officers were involved in misconduct.
A Met spokesperson emphasized the force’s dedication to transparency, stating, “The Metropolitan Police is committed to thoroughly reviewing all information relating to historical allegations in the case of Mohamed Al Fayed, including any indication of police misconduct.”
